Job Overview
Location: Peterborough, Ontario
Structure: Detached two-storey house
Problem: Wildlife activity in attic consistent with squirrel entry; additional rat activity identified
Service: Squirrel removal and rat control with exclusion
Visits: 3
Summary
We responded to reports of early morning wildlife activity in the attic of a detached two-storey home in Peterborough. Inspection confirmed squirrel entry at soffit intersections along the roofline. During follow-up, rat activity was also identified at the foundation level.
Our team completed humane one-way door removal for squirrels and rats, followed by full exterior exclusion using galvanized steel mesh. Final inspection confirmed all wildlife had vacated and no further activity was reported.
Background / Property Context
The property is a brick two-storey home with multiple soffit intersections, roof edge transitions, foundation recesses, and plumbing penetrations. Work took place in January under winter conditions, which required careful roof access and cold-weather material handling.
Several construction transitions—including soffit returns and foundation openings—presented potential wildlife access points.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported scratching and movement in the attic during early morning hours, consistent with squirrel behaviour. Activity appeared to be originating from the roofline.
During the course of work, additional signs of rodent activity were identified in the basement area.
Inspection & Findings
Technician Grant conducted a full exterior roof and foundation inspection.
At the roofline, openings were identified at soffit intersections where materials had separated. These gaps were consistent with squirrel entry. Photos show exposed soffit transitions and roof edges requiring reinforcement.
Galvanized mesh was later installed along approximately eleven feet of roof edge and across three soffit intersections.
At the foundation level, gaps were observed around a recessed plumbing vent area and exposed voids beneath brick and concrete transitions. One opening showed expanding foam material with visible voids behind it, indicating incomplete sealing from previous work.
A rat entry point was identified at a plumbing vent penetration.
Cause Analysis
Squirrels commonly access attics through soffit intersections and roof edge transitions where building materials meet. Seasonal expansion and contraction, combined with aging wood and trim, can create small separations that are sufficient for entry.
At the foundation, recessed utility areas and plumbing penetrations can provide concealed access for rats, particularly where voids are present behind masonry or foam sealant. Winter conditions often drive wildlife to seek warm shelter within attic and basement spaces.
Treatment / Removal
Visit 1 – Squirrel Removal and Initial Exclusion
Grant installed a squirrel one-way door at the primary soffit intersection to allow the adult squirrel to exit safely without re-entry. A secondary one-way door was installed at the same access zone to address additional squirrel movement through the shared opening.
Following installation of the one-way systems, eleven feet of roof edge were reinforced using galvanized steel mesh. Three soffit intersections were permanently sealed with galvanized mesh secured to structural framing.
All work was completed using humane, non-lethal removal methods.
Visit 2 – Rat Control Measures
Upon identifying rat activity, exterior tamper-resistant bait stations were installed in areas of confirmed movement around the structure. A one-way door system was installed at the plumbing vent entry point to allow rats to exit without re-entry.
All rodent control measures were performed in accordance with Ontario Ministry of the Environment guidelines.
Visit 3 – Final Confirmation and Closure
The homeowner reported no further squirrel or rat activity.
All one-way doors were removed. Entry points were permanently sealed with galvanized steel mesh. The full exclusion system was inspected to confirm structural integrity and secure fastening at roofline, soffits, gable transitions, and foundation areas.
Exclusion & Repairs
- Installation of squirrel one-way doors at soffit intersections
- Reinforcement of approximately eleven feet of roof edge using galvanized steel mesh
- Sealing of three soffit intersections with galvanized mesh
- Installation and later removal of rat one-way door at plumbing vent
- Foundation gap reinforcement using galvanized mesh secured to masonry
- Installation of tamper-resistant exterior bait stations
- Final removal of all temporary devices and permanent sealing of entry points
Roofline photos show mesh bridging beneath shingles and along fascia transitions. Gable and soffit areas were reinforced to prevent re-entry. Foundation images show mesh secured around plumbing penetrations and recessed voids.
Outcome & Confirmation
Following completion of exclusion and removal procedures, no further wildlife activity was reported.
All one-way doors were removed, reinforced areas were inspected, and the structure was confirmed secure. The attic and foundation entry points were fully sealed to prevent recurrence.
Technician Notes
Grant completed a full roof-to-foundation inspection under winter conditions. Multiple access vulnerabilities were identified and addressed during the service period.
All wildlife removal was conducted humanely. Rodent control measures were applied in compliance with provincial guidelines. Final inspection confirmed successful evacuation and secure exclusion.
This service was completed by our Peterborough wildlife team. For wildlife removal inquiries in Peterborough, contact 705-410-3708.